Unison Through Music: The Orchestra for ‘Handel’s Messiah’, a Worship concert celebrating ‘Oneness in Christ’ held on April 5 at DABA Church Dimapur. (Benjamin Sugathan Photo)
Morung Express News
Dimapur | April 5
Dimapur | April 5
Simple but ambitious. That is the best way to describe the idea of the ‘Handel’s Messiah’ concert Organising Committee to bring together various Church Choirs of Nagaland, renowned musicians from Singapore and Kolkata, and professional musicians from Nagaland Music Schools—all under one roof.
The Organising Committee envisioned a new path of unity: to unite people from the different tribes of Nagaland through music and also to reach all generations. The invitation was to witness the biggest Worship Concert ever held in Nagaland. This was also the first western classical music concert in Nagaland played by a full sized Orchestra. The concert was held at the Dimapur Ao Baptist Arogo (DABA) under the theme ‘Oneness in Christ’.
Giving the opening word, Alongla P Aier shared with the audience how the concert was initially envisioned. She said, “Last year, when the ugly conflict of tribalism reared once again in Nagaland there was a man who wanted to do something about it. He knew that somehow music was the only tool to bring unity back to society. His relentless pursuit; going from one church to another is a result of how this beautiful choir was born. The man is also the conductor for the evening, Pastor Razo Vasa.” Alongla Aier also noted that many beautiful things have already begun as a result of this gathering. “We are here tonight for two main things. One is to glorify the name of God. Second is for better unity and love among churches in Nagaland. Let us all be blessed,” she exhorted.
After months of rehearsals and exhaustive organizing, the Choir and Orchestra joined hands and raised their voices to sing: ‘Glory to God’, ‘All We Like Sheep Have Gone Astray’, ‘Hallelujah’ and George Frideric Handel’s ‘Messiah’, one of the most widely performed and loved classical music oratorios to this day.
The concert was conducted by Pastor Razo Vasa. The ensemble was joined by three renowned Soloists: Judy Senolos Honor (Tenor), Rubin Lukito (Bass) and Visahu Peseyie.
The concert was warmly welcomed and highly praised by those who attended it. The audience awarded a standing ovation at the end of the concert. A clearly inspired attendee said: “I’m really excited to come to the concert and enjoy the music. It makes me want to join my church choir.”
